As 2023 draws to a close, it's an ideal time to reflect on the year's highlights in the sneaker world. Taking a data-driven approach, Nike has revealed the top five SNKRS releases of the year, showcasing the trends and favorites that dominated the scene. All the pairs listed below also ended up on our list of the Top 10 most popular sneakers of 2023, though the order is slightly different from Nike’s.
5. Nike Kobe 6 Protro Reverse Grinch
Marking one of the final sneaker releases of 2023, the Nike Kobe 6 Protro Reverse Grinch made a significant impact. This sneaker, a creative twist on the iconic Grinch colorway, witnessed a massive launch on the SNKRs app. Despite the many pairs available, many sneakerheads were disappointed on release day, highlighting the high demand for this Kobe.
4. Nike SB x Air Jordan 4 Retro Pine Green
A collaboration between Nike SB and Jordan Brand brought to life a new take on the Jordan 4, now regarded by many as the sneaker of the year. Ranked fourth in Nike's list, this model blends the legacy of Jordan Brand with the skate culture's adoration for such designs. The SB Jordan 4 featured a reworked model’s tooling and closely resembled the original 1989 version, solidifying its place in both sneaker and skateboarding history.
3. Jarritos x Nike SB Dunk Low
When culinary brands merge with Nike SB, the result is invariably a hit. The Jarritos x Nike SB Dunk Low stands out with its distinctive design. The hemp overlays are a nod to the bags used for carrying fruits, an essential ingredient in Jarritos sodas. These tearaway overlays reveal a vivid orange layer beneath, a design choice that pays homage to the brand's vibrant aesthetic.
2. Travis Scott x Air Jordan 1 Low Golf
Travis Scott's collaborations with Jordan Brand on the AJ1 Low consistently rank among the most coveted releases, and 2023 was no exception. The Travis Scott x Air Jordan 1 Low Golf, a highly limited edition, secured the second spot on Nike's list. Its scarcity, with few retailers offering it outside the SNKRS App, added to its allure in the sneaker scene.
1. Travis Scott x Air Jordan 1 Retro Low OG Medium Olive (W)
Topping the list, the Travis Scott x Air Jordan 1 Retro Low OG in Medium Olive was 2023's most sought-after sneaker. This release highlights Travis Scott's significant influence in the sneaker world and underscores Nike’s commitment to releasing women's exclusive designs. This sneaker ended up at number 2 on Sole Retriever’s top 10 list, but Nike’s data shows it was the SNKRS App’s most in-demand release.
Stay tuned to the Sole Retriever mobile app for more updates on future sneaker releases and other sneaker news.
In this article
Sneakerhead from South Florida who turned his passion into a career. Concerts, music, trying new restaurants, and catching the latest movies are some of the things I enjoy when not writing for Sole Retriever. Email: nick@soleretriever.com
